IFDS Worlds - Gary Jobson to attend opening ceremonies

The acclaimed American sailor Gary Jobson will be one of the special guests attending the opening ceremonies of the High Liner Foods IFDS Worlds 2014 at the Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron on Monday, August 18th at 1800 hours. The event is scheduled to happen in the boatyard near the Marine Activity Centre and reporters and camera operators are welcome to attend.

Jobson is best known in recent years for his skilful sailing commentary and documentaries, notably during last year’s Americas Cup broadcasts from San Francisco. His sailing resume includes winning the America’s Cup himself as tactician for Ted Turner in 1977. He is a currently a vice president of the International Sailing Federation and will be presenting an award during the Halifax ceremony.

In addition, the new RNSYS Race Committee boat, the 'J. MacG' will be christened and officially put into service, one of the legacies to be left with the club after the World competition is over. Club members, government partners and corporate sponsors have invested more than $250,000 in upgrades to equipment and club facilities to make the Squadron’s facilities accessible to all.

Athletes from more than 25 countries will be taking part in the High Liner Foods IFDS Worlds and will be represented at the opening ceremonies as the athlete’s oath is taken on behalf of the competitors. All current world champions and numerous former Paralympic medal winners are among the competitors who will compete on three seperate racing circles in Halifax harbour, with racing starting on Tuesday. The 2014 champions will be named when racing concludes on Sunday, August 24th.